19 King Size Beds With Dedicated Dog Spaces Below
Let’s be honest—our dogs don’t just sleep in our beds. They take over the whole mattress, push us to the edge, and somehow manage to stretch out like they own the place. I love my pup, but I also love a full night of sleep without a paw in my face.
That’s why I’ve become obsessed with king size beds that come with built-in dog spaces below. These are not your average bed frames. We’re talking custom nooks, pull-out drawers, and cozy little caves right at floor level. Your dog still feels like they’re part of the action, but you get your space back.
I’ve rounded up 19 brilliant ideas that range from simple and budget-friendly to full-on luxury builds. Whether you have a tiny Chihuahua or a giant Great Dane, there’s a solution here that will make both you and your furry best friend very happy.
1. The Classic Under-Bed Drawer Den
This is the most straightforward approach and honestly one of the most practical. Instead of a regular storage drawer, you build a deep, open-front drawer that slides out like a doggy cave.
The key is to keep the front lip low enough for your dog to step in easily. Add a plush mattress pad inside and maybe a little curtain for privacy if your pup likes to hide.
I love this option because you can easily clean it. Just slide the drawer out, vacuum, and wipe down. It’s also perfect for smaller breeds that like a cozy, enclosed space.
2. The Built-In Staircase Nook
If you have a senior dog or a small breed that loves to sleep in your bed but struggles to jump up, this is a game-changer. The bed frame includes a set of stairs on one side, and underneath the stairs, there’s a dedicated little den.
This solves two problems at once. Your dog can safely climb up for cuddles, and when they want their own space, they can hop down into their own bed tucked under the steps.
Make sure the stairs have a non-slip surface. The nook underneath should be tall enough for your dog to sit up comfortably, not just lie flat.
3. The Floating Platform with a Cave Below
This design is all about modern aesthetics. The king mattress sits on a solid, floating platform that appears to hover above the ground. The space below is completely open, but you can add a large, stylish dog bed right in the center.
This works best for dogs that don’t like being enclosed. They get to be directly under you, feeling your presence above, but they have plenty of room to stretch out.
I’d recommend getting a dog bed with a non-slip bottom so it doesn’t slide around when your pup does their classic “circle before lying down” routine.
4. The Side-By-Side Split Design
This one is for the true dog lovers who want their pup as close as possible. The bed frame is built with a wider base, and the dog space isn’t just at the foot—it’s a long, narrow cave that runs along the entire side of the bed.
Your dog can sleep right next to you, separated by just the frame’s panel. It feels intimate and cozy without the disruption of them hogging the covers.
Add a small opening at both ends so your dog can enter from either side. It makes them feel like they have a secret tunnel.
5. The Heavy-Duty Crate-Style Base
Some dogs actually love their crate. It’s their safe space. So why not integrate a crate directly into the base of your king bed?
You can build a solid wood frame with a metal or wooden slatted door on one side. The inside is spacious enough for a standard crate mattress. It looks intentional and designed, not like you just shoved a wire crate under your bed.
This is a fantastic option for puppies who are still being house-trained. It gives them a secure spot while keeping them close to you at night.
6. The Sliding Barn Door Nook
Add a touch of rustic charm with a sliding barn door on the side of your bed base. The door can be left open for easy access or closed for total privacy and quiet.
This is great for dogs that get anxious with noise. The thick wood helps muffle sound and creates a dark, den-like atmosphere that promotes deep sleep.
Use a soft-close slider mechanism so the door doesn’t slam and scare your pup. Place a small rug inside for extra warmth.
7. The Minimalist Japanese-Style Alcove
Inspired by Japanese architecture, this bed is low to the ground. The base is a wooden platform, and on one side, there is a recessed alcove built into the platform itself.
This is a beautiful, clean look. The dog bed sits flush with the platform, almost like a built-in tatami mat for your pet. It’s very zen and calming.
This works best in a bedroom with minimal furniture. It encourages a grounded, simple aesthetic that feels very peaceful at the end of the day.
8. The Upholstered Tufted Den
Who says the dog space has to be plain wood? Upholster the entire base of your king bed in the same fabric as your headboard, and create a recessed dog nook with a little arched opening.
This looks incredibly luxurious. The tufted detailing adds a high-end hotel feel, but the little doggy door keeps it personal and pet-friendly.
Choose a durable, stain-resistant fabric like performance velvet or crypton. You’ll thank me later when muddy paws come inside.
9. The Reversible Staircase and Den Combo
This is a clever space-saver. The base of the bed has a large dog den on one side. On the other side, there are two or three steps that lead up to the bed.
The steps are actually storage drawers that can be used for extra blankets or dog toys. The den itself is a simple, open box that you can customize with different bedding.
This is perfect for a corner placement in the bedroom. It utilizes the space on both sides without making the bed look bulky.
10. The Tube Tunnel Bed
If you have a dachshund or a terrier that loves to burrow, this is the ultimate treat. Instead of a square box, the space below is a long, tunnel-like tube made of wood or acrylic.
The tunnel has an open entry on both ends. It’s dark, snug, and perfect for dogs that like to dig and nest before sleeping.
Make sure the tunnel is well-ventilated. You can add a thin, washable liner that runs the entire length so it’s easy to clean.
11. The Open Concept with a Curtain
Not all dogs like a solid door. For those that want the option of privacy, just build a standard open nook and add a curtain rod with a light, sheer fabric.
You can leave the curtain open during the day so they can nap in the sun, and close it at night to signal it’s bedtime. It’s a soft, flexible solution.
Use a tension rod so you don’t have to drill into the wood. Choose a fabric that matches your bedroom curtains for a cohesive look.
12. The Corner Wrap-Around Design
This design is for larger bedrooms. The king bed is placed in the corner, and the bed base wraps around both walls, creating a large, L-shaped dog lounge area that follows the contours of the room.
This gives your dog a ton of space. You can put a large orthopedic mattress in the base, plus a little water bowl and a toy basket.
It’s a more complex build, but it’s amazing for owners of big dogs like Labradors or German Shepherds who need room to sprawl.
13. The Storage Stairs with a Side Cave
This is a clever way to combine storage and pet comfort. The stairs are made of deep drawers for your clothes or linens, and the bottom step is actually a pull-out dog bed.
When you pull the bottom drawer out, it reveals a cozy cave with a padded floor. When you push it back in, it looks like just another storage drawer.
This is perfect for small apartments where you need to hide the dog bed during the day to keep the space feeling open.
14. The Raised Platform with a Built-In Ramp
For dogs with joint issues, jumping down from a high bed is hard. This design includes a gentle ramp that leads down from the bed into a spacious dog den below.
The ramp is covered in carpet for grip. The den is at floor level, so it’s easy for your dog to walk straight in without any jumping.
This is a very thoughtful design for aging pets. It shows that you care about their comfort and mobility.
15. The Double Den for Two Dogs
Have two dogs that hate sharing? This is the solution. The base of the king bed is split into two separate, identical dens with a solid divider in the middle.
Each dog gets their own private space with their own entrance. It prevents squabbles over territory and gives each pup a sense of ownership.
Add a small nameplate above each den if you want to get extra cute with it. It’s a fun, personal touch.
16. The Light-Up LED Nook
This is a modern, tech-savvy option. The dog den below is fitted with a soft, warm LED strip light that you can control with a remote or a smart home app.
You can set it to a dim glow at night so your dog doesn’t feel totally in the dark. It also looks really cool and futuristic.
Make sure the wiring is safely enclosed and that the light isn’t too bright. You want it to be calming, not stimulating.
17. The Repurposed Vintage Dresser
This is a DIY hack I absolutely love. Instead of buying a new bed frame, find a solid vintage dresser that is the same width as your king mattress.
Remove the bottom two drawers. Cut out the front panels to create an open archway, and sand it down. You now have a beautiful, rustic dog den with built-in storage drawers above.
This is a budget-friendly option that adds a ton of character to your room. Plus, you’re giving old furniture a second life.
18. The Full-Platform Bunk Bed Style
This is a playful take on a bunk bed. The king bed is raised higher than normal (but still safe), and the entire space below is a massive, open dog room.
You can decorate it like a tiny house for your dog. Add a little rug, a dog couch, and maybe some wall art. It’s a statement piece for sure.
Just make sure the bed is high enough for your dog to stand up fully without hitting their head on the slats above.
19. The Simple DIY Pallet Base
If you’re handy and want a quick weekend project, this is it. Use sturdy wooden pallets to create a base that is tall enough for a dog space below.
Leave one side completely open as a den. Sand everything down so there are no splinters, and paint it a color that matches your room.
This is the most affordable option on the list. It’s rustic, functional, and your dog will love the cozy cave you created just for them.
Final Thoughts
Investing in a bed with a dedicated dog space is a total win-win. You get your mattress back, and your dog gets their own secure spot that still feels close to you. It’s all about co-sleeping without the chaos.
Think about your dog’s size, age, and personality when you choose a design. A burrower will love a tunnel, while a big, independent dog might prefer an open platform. Don’t be afraid to mix and match these ideas to create something totally custom for your furry friend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my dog actually use the space below the bed?
Most dogs will, especially if you make it cozy. Add a familiar blanket or an old t-shirt that smells like you. It helps them feel secure and makes the space inviting.
Are these beds safe for puppies?
Yes, as long as the space is well-ventilated and the materials are non-toxic. For puppies, make sure the entrance is low enough for them to get in and out easily without hurting themselves.
How do I clean the dog space below my bed?
It depends on the design. For drawer styles, you can slide them out completely. For open nooks, simply vacuum or use a lint roller on the bedding. Washable, removable covers are your best friend.
Can I build one of these beds myself?
Absolutely, if you have basic carpentry skills. Simple pallet designs are great for beginners. For more complex builds like sliding doors or stairs, you might want to hire a carpenter or buy a pre-made frame.
What if I have a very large dog like a Great Dane?
Look for designs with a low platform or a very high base. The open-concept platform idea (#3) is great, or you can modify the double den to be one giant, oversized space that fits their massive frame.
